Calling all local artists — Creative Philadelphia and the Illuminate the Arts Grant Committee have launched a $1.5 million grant to help strengthen and financially uplift Philadelphia’s creatives, particularly in Black and Brown communities, and those that do not have access to traditional sources of arts funding.
The grant money will be distributed to Philadelphia’s individual artists, small and mid-size arts organizations, and small creative enterprises to support and acknowledge their creative practice and impact on Philadelphia’s disadvantaged and most underserved and communities.
“Although the Illuminate the Arts Grant originated as Covid-19 relief, it continues to address an important need as a funding opportunity serving individual artists and enterprises, as well as nonprofits,” said Chief Cultural Officer Val Gay. “We want to dispel the narrative of the ‘starving artist.’ Accessible funding opportunities like this one help strengthen our creative sector and enrich the quality of life for so many creatives in Philadelphia.”
Applicants must be based in Philadelphia County. The online application will remain open through Friday, Sept. 13.
Individual artists with a 2023 total annual income of $55,800 or less can apply for a grant of $1,500-$2,000. Individual artists who claim dependents are eligible for higher maximum income limits and should visit the application to determine eligibility.
Small nonprofit arts organizations with 2023 operating budgets of $100,000 or less can apply for grants ranging from $3,000-$5,000. Mid-size nonprofit arts organizations with 2023 operating budgets between $100,000-$500,000 can apply for grants ranging from $5,000-$7,000. And small creative enterprises with 2023 operating budgets less than $500,000 can apply for grants ranging from $5,000-$7,000.
Applicants can submit only one request to the 2024 Illuminate the Arts Grant but are encouraged to apply for support through other funding available from local, state, and national levels. A list of other resources is available at creativephl.org/opportunities.
Creative Philadelphia will host two virtual question and answer sessions for applicants who need more information. The virtual sessions are open to the public and will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 6 to 7 p.m., and Thursday, Aug. 29, from 6 to 7 p.m.
Eligible applicants can apply online by visiting creativephl.org/
